For years, there have been numerous investigations and studies into the direct link between stress and certain diseases. It's widely accepted that almost every part of the body and each physical system can be influenced by stress.
More than 80% of the German population complain of stress. In one-third of these people, the tension caused by this stress has been the cause of a permanent medical condition. Although it's mainly people of the age 30-39 that are most affected, Stress affects all ages.
During periods of stress the body produces hormones, such as adrenaline. Your levels rise. Pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and blood sugar levels all increase. Digestion is reduced, and the blood-clotting factor increases.
Whenever new stress factors are added the energy reserves of the body are exhausted faster. Stress hormones then direct their energy against one's own body, which can make an individual ill. A person who experiences stress is often more vulnerable to physical and mental disorders.
The symptoms of stress are many and varied, and two-thirds of people suffering from stress also suffer from muscle tension and back pain. If we look further into the studies, we find that almost 60% of those suffering are constantly exhausted, sometimes even to the point of 'Burnout syndrome'. In addition to this, some experts believe that stress may be responsible for the beginning stages of diabetes. Other symptoms of extreme stress can include headaches, nervousness, anxiety, depressive moods and sleep disorders. The more stress a person feels, the more symptoms they are likely to be suffering from.
Consequently, stress is also costly. Stress is responsible for a quarter of all medical problems here in Germany. Mental illnesses are often brought on as a result of stress, and it is the most common cause of early retirement in Germany. Such high levels of depression and mental health issues led to a total loss of €26.7 billion in the year 2006 across the country. And this number is increasing yearly.